PICK / TEAM

PLAYER

POSITION

1 – Milwaukee Bucks

JAMES WISEMAN

C

There is a lot of conjecture about the likely no.1 rookie for the draft. For mine, James Wiseman would be a worthy pick for the Milwaukee Bucks; with exceptional athleticism and raw power. Wiseman has been putting on a clinic in his off-court training sessions – as a mobile big, he would partner Williamson with a ferocity that will be electric. Gilgeous-Alexander will have a field-day playing alongside Wiseman and Williamson.  Wiseman has his critics, but he will be a 2K darling; big, athletic, and heaps of potential. 2K Gold.

2 – New York Knicks

LAMELO BALL

PG

The 6’7 Lamelo ‘Melo’ Ball could well be no.1; with his outstanding performances for the Illawarra Hawks. Melo is exactly what the Knicks need to bolster their roster. Melo is that cut and carry guard, that will elevate those around him. Ingram has seemed one-out in the inaugural NSL season, and Ball could be that outlet. Defensively, Ball has a bit to do, but the production that the Knicks will be deserving.  The second pick comes down to fit; and Ball would fit the Knicks perfectly.

3 – Denver Nuggets

ANTHONY EDWARDS

SG

An elite scorer, Anthony Edwards is the target that the Nuggets would be chasing here. Edwards has been scintillating at times throughout his freshman year at Georgia. Edwards comes into the draft young, which is an upside for the Nuggets, however this does not mean he isn’t NSL ready. He will start. With Coby White, the two make a formidable guard duo with youth and plenty of upside. 

4 – Indiana Pacers

OBI TOPPIN

PF

Obi Toppin has been thrown around mock draft markets like an Atlantic Salmon on market day. He showed his efficiency in the post, with 22.8 points per game, 8.6 rebounds per game and 2.5 assists. Toppin comes into the draft as a 22 year old, and I believe will have a long career in the NSL. His presence will bring a security and strength that has been missing in the Pacers roster. His defensive game is questionable… but that’s not the aim for the Pacers with this selection. Bearing in mind, the Pacers have managed to secure another pick likely to fall in the top 15 to compliment his selection.

5 – Boston Celtics (via Minnesota Timberwolves)

KILLIAN HAYES

                             PG

The first of three picks in the draft, Hayes would be an excellent addition for the Celtics. A very skillful guard, Hayes can be go to guard for the Celtics. The Celtics aren’t short of young talented guards, but Hayes could swing between the guard positions with ease, and give a ruthless burst of speed to ease the pressure on the likes of Tatum. Killian is exciting, and his NBA selection will play a big part in his development. He has an ability to shoot, and defends with grit.

6 – Boston Celtics

ONYEKA OKONGWU

PF/C

The second picks for the Celtics, Okongwu would be a supreme partner for Collins. While he is only a freshman, Okongwu is an Adonis. He is an instant impact Power Forward, who can work both ends of the court. At 6’9, the USC freshman will need to work hard to maintain his presence in the NSL, but I think he has the traits worthy of making the grade and making an impact on the Celtics. Okongwu could very well be top 3 in the NBA draft; as we are talking fit, he would lift an already promising Celtics roster. Seen as a Bam Adebayo style player, I am very excited about Okongwu.

7 – New Orleans Pelicans

DENI AVDIJA

SF

At times being touted as a top 5 selection, at times being a pick outside the lottery; Avdija has been an up and down enigma. Avdija has been compared to a lesser-Doncic and poor man’s Danny Granger, but he has shown his creativity and scoring ability. Needing to develop his 3 ball could be the next step. Alongside Morant and Mitchell, the three could make a formidable trio – causing headaches up and down the court. Deni is a serious talent and proved it throughout his time at Tel Aviv. His talent is undeniable, but questions remain about his transition to the NSL.

8 – Charlotte Hornets

ISSAC OKORO

SF

The Hornets could potentially land a steal in Okoro – even at no.8. I love his game and see longevity. Okoro would enter the Hornets roster with the hallmarks of an elite defensive forward, and a drive and hustle on the offensive end to move and shake the league. Okoro would hold the small forward slot with confidence; with Doncic and Levert running the guard positions, he could land serious blows on his opponents with his varied skillset. Okoro is a slick two-way player, and could be an exciting fit for the Hornets – and could well go to the NBA Hornets as well….

9 – Oklahoma City Thunder

PRECIOUS ACHIUWA

SF/PF

Achiuwa has the physical attributes necessary to be an impact player in the NSL. The Thunder would benefit from his production in either slot. The Thunder could potentially reach down the draft for a center; but I think Oklahoma would be better in acquiring a player of his talents. He has had comparisons to the likes of Bam Adebayo and Antoine Walker; which is high praise on the youngster. He is a hard-playing big and will enter the NSL draft at 21 years old; he will hopefully sort his presence out early. 

10 – Brooklyn Nets

RJ HAMPTON

PG/SG

At 19 years old, Hampton is a project player that the Nets could partner alongside Kemba Walker. Hampton has speed and athleticism on his side; but has been questioned about his size. The main word being thrown around when talking about RJ Hampton is POTENTIAL. The dirty word is true of Hampton – as he continues to define himself as a player with no stand-out skills. With comparisons to prime OJ Mayo and Jamal Murray; Hampton could be what the Nets need.

11 – Orlando Magic

SADDIQ BEY

SF

An outstanding 3&D style player, Bey showed substantial potential at Villanova. The 6’8 sophomore, can hit threes with consistency; averaging 45% on 3P%, when shooting more than five per game. Bey can fuel the offensive end for the Magic; and could hold up the defensive end as well. The question being whether the Magic want to bolster another position or dive down the draft for another option. But, Bey could be one of the steals of the draft.

12 – Houston Rockets

TYRESE HALIBURTON

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